Ezekiel 20:31

Ndebele Bible - 2010

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What Does This Mean?

In this verse, God is speaking to the Israelites, criticizing their sinful practices like offering their children to idols and burning them in fire. He says that because of their sins, He won't listen to their prayers.

Explained for Children

Imagine if you had a friend who always broke your toys and didn't say sorry. One day, they ask for help, but you don't want to help because of how they've treated you. That's kind of what God is saying here.

Historical Background

Ezekiel, a prophet, wrote this around 590 BC while the Israelites were in exile. He's addressing a people who are still following old sinful practices, like sacrificing children to idols, which God finds abhorrent.

Living It Out Today

This verse can be applied to modern life when people try to seek God's favor through actions that are not in line with God's will. For example, someone might think that doing something harmful or wrong can be okay if they pray about it later.

Topics

• worship
• sin
• prayer
• judgment
• faithfulness
• sacrifice

Related Verses

• Deuteronomy 12:31
• Leviticus 18:21
• Jeremiah 7:31
• 1 Corinthians 10:14
• Psalm 106:37

Recommended Reading

Commentary Ezekiel Commentaries → Get This Bible Ndebele Bible - Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did God refuse to be enquired of by the Israelites?

God refused to be enquired of because the Israelites were engaging in sinful practices like child sacrifice and worshipping idols, which polluted their relationship with Him.

What does 'pollute yourselves with all your idols' mean?

This means that by worshipping idols, the Israelites were defiling themselves spiritually, distancing themselves from God's purity and true worship.

How can this verse be applied to our lives today?

Today, this verse reminds us to ensure our actions align with God's will and to avoid practices that lead us away from true worship, even if we think they are part of our faith.

What cultural practices did the Israelites engage in that angered God?

The Israelites were offering their children as sacrifices to idols and engaging in other idolatrous practices, which God found deeply offensive and sinful.